Tent campsites near Cary, Illinois range from rustic walk-in sites to lakefront camping options within reasonable driving distance. Several forest preserves and state parks in the region offer primitive camping experiences with varying levels of amenities. Most camping areas near Cary maintain seasonal operations from spring through fall, with occasional winter availability at select locations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Kishwaukee River access points at MacQueen Forest Preserve allow for fishing, though experienced campers note the limitations. "I don't have a lot of experience with fishing, but the places with access to the river were not good locations for fishing," reports Marcus D. from MacQueen Forest Preserve.
Hiking nearby trails: The camping areas surrounding Cary feature modest trail networks suitable for day hiking. "There isn't much in terms of hiking trails. Just the main path and a few paths connecting sites and sort of a path along the river," notes a MacQueen Forest Preserve visitor.
Stargazing in open fields: Several campsites provide excellent night sky viewing opportunities. At MacQueen Forest Preserve, "About half of the campsites are in a meadow at the back end of the campground. It would be beautiful for stargazing!" according to visitor Amy G.
Water recreation: Snug Harbor Inn Campground on Turtle Lake offers boating and water activities. "The campground sells ice, firewood and rents boats," reports Josh F., making it a good option for water-based recreation within driving distance of Cary.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Tent campers appreciate the spacious layout at certain campgrounds. "Spots are pretty spread out," notes Nick C. at MacQueen Forest Preserve. Another reviewer mentions, "Each campsite has a fire pit and a picnic table. VERY private and secluded."
Budget-friendly options: Affordable camping is available at several locations near Cary. A MacQueen Forest Preserve camper states, "The very best part? You're in the middle of the country, with gorgeous sunsets, and the primitive camping is only $4."
Well-maintained facilities: Despite being primitive, many campgrounds are kept in good condition. "Well maintained bathrooms, great secluded sites. Super easy no registration its first come first serve," reports Darshon J. from MacQueen Forest Preserve.
Lake views: At Snug Harbor Inn Campground, visitors enjoy the terraced camping design. "Nice three tiered camping spot. Full hookup, and great views," writes Alix M. Another camper describes, "The view was nice overlooking Turtle lake. Like the design of 3 levels so everyone gets a view."
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds experience nighttime train disruptions. A MacQueen Forest Preserve camper warns, "Note: if you cannot sleep to the sound of trains at night, this is not the campground for you. I don't mind them at all, and rather enjoy the sound, but there were probably three of them that went by in the middle of the night rather close to the campground."
Limited amenities: Most tent camping options near Cary are primitive with basic facilities. "This is a very primitive campground with 1 set of Vault toilets," notes a reviewer. Another camper at MacQueen Forest Preserve adds, "There is water, but it is not, I repeat is not, potable."
Gear transport requirements: Many sites require walking in from parking areas. "You do have to walk into all of them, but they do have one wagon and a dolly you can use to tote things in. It's an easy walk, on a crushed gravel road and mowed trail," explains one camper.
Seasonal considerations: Spring camping can mean fewer crowds. "I stayed one night and I really enjoyed myself. There wasn't anyone there. I assume it's because it's early in the spring," reports a MacQueen visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible options: Some campgrounds offer handicap-accessible sites. "They do have one space near the parking lot that's handicap accessible," notes a MacQueen Forest Preserve visitor. "There is one wheelchair accessible tent site on a blacktop path in the forest canopy."
Group camping potential: Several areas accommodate family groups while maintaining privacy. At MacQueen Forest Preserve, "There's also a giant fire pit with benches. The perfect area for a small group camp (as long as each party paid for the campsite that's back there)."
Pet policies vary: Some campgrounds welcome pets with restrictions. "Dog friendly, but must be leashed all of time or a $50 fine. My dog loved the trails and river crossings!" shares Marisa A. about MacQueen Forest Preserve.
Security features: Families appreciate added safety measures. "The ranger is very nice and the entrance is locked from sunset to sunrise," notes a camper, adding, "Even if the rangers don't actually live here, they're here regularly and it's obvious."
Tips from RVers
Tent-only locations: Many camping areas near Cary are specifically designed for tent camping, not RVs. "This is where to go if you don't like pitching a tent in a field of RVs," notes one camper about MacQueen Forest Preserve.
Combined tent-RV options: For those wanting both tent and RV accommodation, Snug Harbor Inn offers mixed camping. "This is primarily an RV/mobile home campground, but there are some nicely tucked away tent camp sites," explains Josh F. "The tent sites are above it all with decent views of the lake below (and the RVs)."
Campground design considerations: RV sites and tent sites are often segregated by elevation or area. "The property is basically terraced along a slope down to the lake, with the RV and mobile home sites closer to the lake," describes a Snug Harbor visitor.
